Teaching net and wall games through Competitive Tactical Cycles

Competitive Tactical Cycles (CTC) is a Game Based Approach that structures the learning process through cycles guided by a tactical map. Each cycle focuses consecutively on two complementary tactical problems and ends with a competition session. Each cycle includes a reference game that serves as main learning activity throughout the cycle. Furthermore, CTC incorporates elements of the Sport Education model to make the learning experience more motivating and meaningful for students, while also contributing to efficient lesson management for teachers.

This proposal presents a CTC unit, designed from a net and wall thematic approach. An example applied to a specific sport (pickleball) can be found in Gutiérrez & Segovia (2025). This work describes a 10 to 15 session teaching unit, establishing the overall structure, reference games for each cycle, and suggestions for reflection strategies, practice tasks, and game modifications to create rich learning environments for all students. However, it is not intended to serve as a fully scripted lesson plan. It is essential that the teacher adapt instruction responsively to the evolving context, placing each student at the center of her/his learning process.